From the Guidelines
The role of technology in patient-centered care is to enhance healthcare delivery by integrating digital tools that prioritize patients' needs and preferences, ultimately improving patient outcomes and satisfaction, as evident from the most recent study in 2023 1.
Key Components of Technology in Patient-Centered Care
- Electronic health records (EHRs) to improve data management and sharing
- Telehealth platforms for remote consultations and monitoring
- Patient portals for accessible health information and communication
- Mobile health apps for personalized health management
- Remote monitoring devices for continuous health tracking
Implementation Strategies
- Select user-friendly interfaces that accommodate various digital literacy levels
- Ensure accessibility for all patients, including those with disabilities
- Provide proper training for both staff and patients on using these tools effectively
- Maintain regular communication through secure messaging systems and virtual visits
- Collect patient feedback to continuously improve technological solutions
Benefits of Technology in Patient-Centered Care
- Bridges gaps in care access, especially for rural or underserved populations
- Improves communication between patients and healthcare providers
- Empowers patients to participate in their healthcare decisions
- Enhances patient engagement and outcomes, as demonstrated by improved adherence, self-management, and satisfaction with care 1
Balancing Technology and Human Connection
- Technology should complement rather than replace human connection
- The goal is to strengthen the provider-patient relationship while making healthcare more convenient, personalized, and effective
- As highlighted in a study on telemedicine, efficient use of telemedicine technologies can improve overall health outcomes, including reduced costs and improved quality-adjusted life-years 1
From the Research
Role of Technology in Patient-Centered Care
The role of technology in patient-centered care is multifaceted, with various studies highlighting its impact on healthcare outcomes, patient satisfaction, and the delivery of care. Some key aspects of technology in patient-centered care include:
- Health information technology (HIT) supporting patient-centered care (PCC) has been shown to have a positive effect on healthcare outcomes, including disease-specific clinical outcomes and intermediate outcomes such as patient satisfaction and health knowledge 2.
- Mobile health (mHealth) technologies have been found to have modest evidence in improving patient clinical outcomes, but there is uncertainty regarding their impact on patient-centered outcomes such as patient engagement and satisfaction 3.
- Information and communication technology (ICT) has transformed healthcare by providing patients with access to digital innovations such as wearable technology, remote monitoring, patient portals, and mobile applications, which can improve health outcomes and enhance the patient experience 4.
- Experts suggest that HIT should play a crucial role in supporting patient-centered care by providing clear information and support for patients and promoting care based on patient values and preferences 5.
Barriers and Facilitators to Technology Adoption
Several barriers and facilitators to the adoption of technology in patient-centered care have been identified, including:
- Barriers such as lack of usability, access issues, low computer literacy, and workflow problems 2.
- Facilitators such as ease of use, perceived usefulness, efficiency of use, and availability of support 2.
- The need for interdisciplinary clarity on definitions, methodologies, and patient-centered outcomes in mHealth research 3.
- The importance of staying fluent with ICT options to best collaborate with patients 4.
Patient-Centered Care Outcomes
Technology can support patient-centered care outcomes such as: